Cover Letter Template
Click the button below to view our cover letter example on Google Drive.
Scroll down to the next section for notes on this example, and some tips & tricks on strong cover letter writing!
To download, just click File > Make a copy (must be signed in to Google)
Continuing on from the resume example, this cover letter is still for ‘Cady Heron,’ a high school student with little/no prior experience in ocean conservation! Here, Cady is applying for a virtual social media marketing role (see example for the fake job posting she is applying to!).
Letter Guidelines
Header & Salutation: Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, and email at the top of the cover letter, and include the date of writing. Address the letter to a specific person if possible (e.g., Hiring Manager or Recruiter). If you don't have a name, use a general salutation (e.g., "Dear Hiring Team").
Introduction: Start with a strong opening sentence that grabs the reader's attention. Be sure to mention the specific position you are applying for and where you found the job posting.
First Paragraph: Briefly introduce yourself, mention why you are interested in the position and the company. If you were referred by someone, mention it here!
Middle Paragraphs (2-3 paragraphs): Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments. Connect your qualifications to the requirements of the job. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements. Address any gaps or unusual aspects of your resume. Customize your middle paragraphs for each application to address the specific needs of the company and the position. You could also use space here to talk about your career goals, and how this position will help you achieve your goals/learn something.
Closing Paragraph: Express enthusiasm for the position. Mention your desire for an interview to discuss your qualifications further. Use a professional closing (e.g., "Sincerely" or "Best Regards").
Tips & Tricks
Formatting Tips: Keep the letter concise (usually one page). Use a clean and professional layout with standard fonts. Break the text into paragraphs for readability.
Language and Tone: Write in a professional and formal tone. Avoid using overly complex language; be clear and concise. Demonstrate enthusiasm and confidence in your abilities.
Proofread: Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and typos. Ask a friend or mentor to review your cover letter for feedback. Grammarly is also great for this!
Follow Application Instructions: Adhere to any specific instructions provided in the job posting. Be sure to include any required documents or information, and make sure the files are named appropriately.
Additional Tips: Research the company culture and values to align your language with theirs. Use keywords from the job description to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS). Be genuine and authentic in your writing.